The Kite Runner

Discussion Two

Directions:
This space has been established for you to discuss your literature circle book with a larger audience in an online setting.

Process:
  • Read over the prompts below.
  • Choose one prompt, and consider how it relates to your book. Prepare a response and add it to the discussion. You must post one original discussion response (i.e.your initial answer to the prompt).
    • To add to the discussion, you must first log in to wikispaces using your username and password. Then, click on the discussion tab at the top of this window to enter the discussion.
  • Then, respond/reply to two other responses from other students. This is essentially like the conversation you would normally have in class. Consider it a discussion; you give feedback, agree or disagree, or ask new, but related questions for your peers to consider.
  • Finally, go to the discussions of the two books you read previously. Participate in the discussion by contributing one post (response or original response). Make sure to not reveal too much information (the current book has not been finished by those in that discussion).
  • All responses will be scored based on their demonstration of thoughtfulness and understanding (content, audience, purpose).

Minimum participation is required, but extended participation is encouraged and expected. Please make sure your subject headings are clear statements of topic or title. If you find yourself having technical problems with the discussion board, or you note a concern in content or behavior within the discussion, please alert Ms. Shubert immediately. You may email her (abby.shubert@appo.k12.de.us) or send her a message on wikispaces (username: shubert). Now get started!!!

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Prompts:

1. Analyze the relationship of Hassan and Amir. Explain what happened that changed their relationship and what happened to it in the future; describe the importance of their relationship to the story.

2. Discuss the relationship between Amir and Baba. How does Amir feel about Baba? Even though he sometimes feels unwanted, why does Amir constantly trying to get his fathers attention.

3.How does the use of symbolism, culture, literary elements etc. by Khaled Hosseini reflect the strong kinship between Amir and Hassan even after they had been forced continents apart?

4. How do Baba’s actions and values affect the relationship between Amir and Hassan?

5. At the end of the story, Sohrab “smiles” in America for the first time. Will he continue to progress and start talking; or will he stay mute forever?

6. Why did Amir want his father's love so bad? Why was Amir jealous of his father's feelings toward Hassan??

7. Why do you think Baba comes down on Amir the way he does? What does that tell you about their relationship?

8. Write a brief character analysis on your favorite character and then explain why you chose this person and how they relate to you or society.

9. How does Amir change throughout the course of the novel? Explain the events that caused the changes in Amir.

10.The Kite Runner was a very personal fiction.The book took place where the author was from.
How did the book reflect how personal the author wanted to be?

11.Why do you think Hosseini chose “The Kite Runner” as the novel’s title? Think about what the kite runner symbolizes and how it relates to the story.

12. How do you think the story would have played out if Amir was the servant and Hassan was his master?

13. Consider the invasion of the Russians into Afghanistan.Look into how it affect people in the real world and compare it to what Amir went through.

14. What true message is Khaled Hosseini trying to get across?

15. It was Amir’s dearest wish to please his father. Describe how far he went in his attempt to do so and at what cost. In your opinion, was it worth it?

16, If you had to be either Amir or Hassan who would you be? Explain why.

17. Describe the parallels between the story and actual events such as the author’s life, or events in Afghanistan.

18. What are the relationships between life in the Middle East and life in the United States? Did reading this book change any of your opinions?

19. Compare and contrast Amir and Hassan. Who is the better person? Think about social status, loyalty, friendship, priorities, heritage, strengths and weaknesses, etc.

20. Why does Amir after all the years of being scared go to Afghanistan to rescue Sohrab from the Taliban?

21. Compare and contrast American and Afghan culture. How do these differences and similarities afect Amir and Baba when they arrive in America?